Certain dog breeds found to be more fearful than others
A new study by the University of Helsinki has revealed that common canine fears and behavioural problems are linked to aspects of the dogs’ environment, lifestyle and breed. With dogs that are physically active and well-trained found to be the least fearful in new situations and environments.
The behavioural survey of almost 14,000 dogs showed that inadequate socialisation of puppies had a strong link with fearfulness relating to new situations, loud sounds and slippery or uneven surfaces.
Fear of fireworks and surfaces was also more common among the dogs of first-time owners, and differences were seen between dogs living in urban and rural areas.
Professor Hannes Lohi from the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Faculty of Medicine said: “Our prior research on the environmental effects of social fear observed the same phenomena where urban dogs were more fearful than their rural counterparts. Indeed, it is interesting that human mental health problems too occur more frequently in the city than in rural areas.
“The ways in which our environment shapes us and our best friend is definitely an interesting topic for further research.”
Vast differences in fears between breeds were also identified, with cairn terriers found to be one of the most fearful breeds and Chinese crested dogs among the least fearful.
Different non-social fears were also found to be more prevalent in individual breeds. For example, Pembroke Welsh corgis were generally very sensitive to noise but were not very fearful of surfaces, meanwhile this fear was common amongst miniature schnauzers, Labradors and Chihuahuas and noise sensitivity was less so.
"The breed-specific differences support the idea that fearfulness is inherited. In other words, breeding choices matter, even without knowing the exact mechanisms of inheritance,” Professor Lohi added.
“However, this study offers dog owners tools and support for previous notions related to improving the wellbeing of their dogs. Diverse socialisation in puppyhood and an active lifestyle can significantly reduce social and non-social fearfulness."
Two independent vets have launched a podcast to help owners strengthen their bond with pets. Dr Maggie Roberts and Dr Vanessa Howie, who have worked in both veterinary practice and major charities, are keen to use their experience to enable people to give pets a better life.
